The narrow medieval streets lined with historic buildings make Kilkenny city one of the most attractive urban centres on the island – and the ideal spot from which to explore the wider county.  

The centrepiece of Kilkenny’s medieval footprint is Kilkenny Castle, built by the Normans and standing tall over the Marble City for over 800 years. Join a tour to learn about the powerful and wealthy Butler family, who ruled as the earls, marquesses and dukes of Ormond for six centuries – and turned Kilkenny into a regional powerhouse. On your tour, check out intriguing interiors like the delicate Chinese wallpaper in the ladies’ withdrawing room and the hand-painted roof in the Picture Gallery, decorated with Pre-Raphaelite ladies and naturalistic scenes. 

For a deeper insight into Kilkenny’s rich history, the Medieval Mile Museum tells the story of the county's growth throughout the Middle Ages. Housed inside the 13th-century St Mary’s Church, highlights include exhibits on crusader, soldier and statesman William Marshall, aka ‘the greatest knight who ever lived’, and the Rothe Chapel, full of magnificent stone-carved tombs and a gorgeous 17th-century wooden roof. A huge interactive map helps you make sense of medieval Kilkenny.   

Experience a selection of Irish design and crafts at the Kilkenny Design Centre, across the street from the castle. Take in this showcase of Irish and contemporary gifts, and shop for a memento from your trip or a gift for a loved one. You’ll find pottery produced by Nicholas Mosse, Enibas jewellery designed by Sabina Lenz, work by artist Sharon McDaid and more. 

Next door, the Castle Yard hosts a number of talented craft and design businesses from Kilkenny and beyond. Discover the breadth of work that goes into each design and watch craftspeople at work, then pop over to the National Design & Craft Gallery, featuring exhibitions across a wide variety of media, including textile, glass and ceramics.

A short stroll brings you to the Smithwick’s Experience Kilkenny. This interactive, multi-sensory experience tells the tale of Ireland's oldest ale, brewed in Kilkenny since 1710. On the tour (all led by locals) you can mill the malt, stir the mash and smell the hops. Listen as they explain what makes this ale unique (spoiler alert: it’s the distinctive Ruby Red colour). Top your tour off with a pint of smooth and satisfying Smithwick's. 

Once you've satisfied your thirst, explore the collection of 20th-century Irish art for free at the Butler Gallery. Alongside their permanent collections, discover their contemporary exhibitions, which reflect evolving visual art practices and the use of different media. Outside, feel free to wander the romantic secret garden and see contemporary Irish sculpture.  

Where to eat and stay in Kilkenny city

For a taste of classic Italian fare, head to the award-winning Ristorante Rinuccini, located just steps from the castle. Explore its intimate wine cellar and pair your choice with one of their sumptuous dishes, whether it's the lobster or crab, or a hearty meal made with locally sourced meats. 

Just the next street over on The Parade, you'll find the Left Bank, a beautifully restored bar housed in a former bank. Its seasonal menu highlights locally sourced ingredients – think slow-cooked pork cheek with pumpkin risotto and Guinness sauce, or a homemade bourbon burger with hand-cut fries. 

For a slice of local history, head to The Marble City Bar and Tea Rooms, one of the oldest public houses in the county. Dating back to the early 1900s and named after Kilkenny’s famous limestone, this spot serves breakfast, lunch and dinner with a focus on fresh Irish produce. Try the pan-fried king prawns with chorizo and coriander cream reduction.

Recently awarded the title of Kilkenny’s Best Gastro Pub, Langton's Bar and Restaurant effortlessly blends great food with a lively atmosphere and a touch of elegance. Whether you're in the mood for a laid-back lunch or something a bit more refined, their options have you covered. When the sun goes down, Langton’s 67 Bar keeps the energy high with live music every night of the week. 

Photo credit: @langtonskilkenny

For a quiet moment with a literary twist, pop into The Book and Coffee Shop in the heart of the city. Browse rare second-hand books while sipping freshly brewed coffee and indulging in a slice of homemade cake. If you're lucky, you might even catch a poetry reading or a play.

At Mocha's Vintage Tea Rooms, the eclectic décor creates a cosy, welcoming vibe – perfect  for a relaxing breakfast, lunch or Afternoon Tea. Enjoy a menu full of fresh salads, hot dishes and homemade sandwiches in charming surroundings. 

If you're a whiskey enthusiast, head to the Kilkenny Whiskey Guild. Its ten member establishments each stock a minimum of 60 Irish whiskeys. Guided by their knowledgeable staff, learn about Kilkenny’s deep-rooted distilling heritage and enjoy tastings, food pairings and cocktails. 

Wine, beer and Spanish food lovers will feel right at home at The Grapevine Wine & Tapas Bar. Their menu features a wide range of tapas, salads, bruschetta and antipasti, along with Irish craft beers and wines from both organic producers and renowned vineyards around the world. 

Complete your evening with a bit of live music at The Hole In The Wall. One of Ireland’s oldest surviving Elizabethan townhouses, it is now an intimate tavern and hosts over 100 different musical acts each year, from rock bands and jazz singers to up-and-coming musicians and more.  

There are plenty of places to stay in Kilkenny with options to suit every visitor, from cosy B&Bs and self-catering cottages to luxury hotels with all the trimmings.  

Just 9km south of Kilkenny is handsome Bennettsbridge, named after the stone bridge that spans the Nore. Start with a gentle stroll along the O’Gorman’s Lane Loop walk, an easygoing trail that begins in the heart of the village. The hour-long walk takes you through quiet country roads, peaceful lanes and along the riverbank. 

After your walk, pop into Crafted café for a hot drink and freshly baked treats. Their menu is full of tempting options, from light lunches and soups to fresh salads and hearty toasties. 

While you're in the village, don’t miss Nicholas Mosse Pottery and Mill Café. Set inside a beautifully restored flour mill, this working pottery studio is home to the internationally loved work of master potter Nicholas Mosse. Using Irish clay and traditional designs, his handcrafted pieces are popular all over the world. Browse the range of intricately detailed pottery, linen and glass, then head upstairs for a bite in the café. 

In the evening, settle in at O’Donnell’s bar, a warm, family-run pub and off-licence where you’ll find local hurling chat (you are in Kilkenny after all) and maybe even a bit of live music. 

Where to stay in Bennnettsbridge

If you fancy overnighting in the area, the Nore Valley Park is a campsite with an open farm, fun activities and accommodation in the heart of Kilkenny’s peaceful countryside. Choose from a wooden lodge, a comfortable mobile home or a scenic tent pitch.  

A further 9km south is Thomastown, which has retained elements of its medieval origins but is best known these days for its picturesque setting on the Nore, surrounded by beautiful countryside.  

Just outside of town, 12th-century Jerpoint Abbey offers a remarkable glimpse into Ireland’s Cistercian heritage. Highlights include the beautifully preserved Romanesque church and the tomb of the abbey’s first abbot, Felix O’Dulany. As you explore the site, you’ll discover intricate carvings and sculptures, and gain insight into the daily life of the Cistercian monks who once lived and worked here. 

Not far from here at Jerpoint Glass Studio, you can watch talented glassblowers at work, shaping molten glass into beautiful, handmade pieces. It’s fascinating to see the glowing red-hot glass come to life right in front of you. 

Developed in the 1790s, Kilfane Glen and Waterfall is a Romantic-era garden with woodland paths and specially created contemporary art. Wander by the 30ft waterfall, rustic grotto and thatched summerhouse in this idyllic landscape. 

Nature lovers will uncover more of Kilkenny’s natural beauty as they discover the Nore Valley Walk. This 10.8km trail takes three hours to complete and passes along a mix of riverbank, forest and road. The linear Inistioge to Thomastown trail is the third section of the three-leg Nore Valley Walk, so, if you fancy extending your hike, you can always take on the other instalments. 

Practice your swing and play 18 holes at Mount Juliet Golf Club at the Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course. The course is set across 180 acres of naturally beautiful countryside including specimen trees, miles of rushing river and green pastures. If golf isn't your thing, why not head to the nearby Mount Juliet Equestrian Centre, which caters for experienced riders and complete beginners. Enjoy the fresh air on a trek or trail-riding excursion in the surrounding pastures and parkland within and around the estate. 

Goatsbridge Trout Farm is a Blas na hEireann/Irish Food Awards-winning provider of premium Irish trout to hotels, restaurants, supermarkets and fish wholesalers. Visit their eco-friendly farm to learn about the trout’s lifecycle from eyed ova in the hatchery to maturity, and taste their premium fresh and smoked trout.  

Where to eat and stay in Thomastown

On the main street, The Blackberry Café specialises in serving delicious, locally-sourced food in a restored 18th-century building, such as Knockdrinna cheese and David Ward Organic Vegetables. 

If you’ve got a sweet tooth, pay a visit to Truffle Fairy. Tour the kitchen and watch some of Ireland's most talented chocolatiers create handmade chocolates using high-quality, ethically sourced ingredients. After, treat yourself to something delicious in the cosy café. 

For a delicious coffee on the go, make a pitstop at Unwind Coffee Co. or give in to temptation with some treats at The Rosemary Tree. 

Photo credit: @unwindcoffeeco

Meanwhile, The Hound at Hunter’s Yard is ideal for an elegant dining experience. Take your pick from dishes like their Kilmore Quay cod, the Iona Farm broccoli risotto with mascarpone and stilton foam or a shareable Irish beef tomahawk steak sourced from Quigleys in Cork. If the weather is nice, have your meal on the heated terrace and enjoy fantastic views of Mount Juliet Golf Course. 

After your meal, spend the night at the Mount Juliet Estate, a five-star retreat set on 500 acres of gorgeous countryside. Before you leave, take part in some of their onsite activities including archery, fishing, falconry and world-class round of golf. If you prefer to stay indoors, visit the health club with a heated swimming pool, sauna, steam room and gym.  

Photo credit: @mountjulietestate

Feel like part of the family at the Oldtown Farmhouse. The spacious B&B is set on a family farm and offers a warm welcome as well as panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.  

More proof that medieval monks knew a thing or two about picturesque locations can be found in Graiguenamanagh, about 15km east of Thomastown. This handsome spot on the River Barrow (check out the iconic six-arch stone bridge) is known as the ‘village of the monks’ thanks to the impressive 13th-century Duiske Abbey and there are plenty of scenic walks in and around the town.  

Start right in town and take on the Brandon Hill Loop – a challenging five-hour hike that winds through quiet country roads, forest trails and open, heather-covered hills. At the summit, take in Kilkenny’s highest point, with sweeping views in every direction. On a clear day, you might even catch a glimpse of the South East coastline.  

If you’re in the mood for something a little more laid-back, hop on an open boat tour with Riverboat Adventures and take in the peaceful beauty of the River Barrow. It’s a lovely way to soak up the scenery of Ireland’s Ancient East. 

Feeling a bit more adventurous? Pure Adventure - Kilkenny lets you explore by taking to the water – whether it’s in a canoe, kayak or on a stand-up paddle board. Glide along the Rivers Nore and Barrow, or head out to the Copper Coast, where you can discover sea caves, blowholes and more along the shoreline. 

If you prefer to stay on dry land, you can explore the Barrow River towpath using pedal power in a safe traffic-free environment. Choose from mountain bikes or electric bikes at Waterside Bike and Hike and explore the beauty of the Barrow Valley. 

Take a stroll through the atmospheric ruins of Duiske Abbey, a 13th-century Cistercian monastery. While its exterior is modest, step inside to discover a surprisingly intricate interior. Admire the ancient stonework, soaring clerestory windows in the nave and the striking effigy of a 13th-century knight that adds to the abbey’s quiet sense of history. 

Treat your tastebuds to a hands-on culinary experience with chef John Whelan at The Devils Menu Boutique Cookery School. Using locally-sourced ingredients, John brings a creative touch to modern Irish cuisine rooted in classic techniques. His passion and flair make every dish – and every lesson - memorable. 

Where to eat and stay in Graiguenamanagh 

Pause for a coffee and something sweet at Quirky, or head up to The Hooftop Café for açai bowls, ice cream and home baked treats – it’s a great spot to unwind. 

Photo credit: @thehooftopcafe

For a taste of local life, pop into Mick Doyle’s, a traditional pub, grocery and hardware store that’s been part of the community for over 50 years. Known as the heart of Graiguenamanagh’s live music scene, it’s a lively place to soak up the atmosphere. 

When it’s time to rest, the Waterside Guesthouse provides a cosy stay in a beautifully restored 19th-century granite corn store. It’s a great base for boating, fishing or hill walking – and the on-site restaurant makes the most of local ingredients.